Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: Security-related legislation will enter into force tomorrow. What significance does the Government attach to this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: First of all, on March 22, the Cabinet approved cabinet orders relevant to the Legislation for Peace and Security and other matters which needed to be taken care of for the legislation to enter into force. The Legislation for Peace and Security will enter into force on March 29. As I have stated repeatedly, as the security situation surrounding Japan increases in severity, the Government considers that the Legislation for Peace and Security is essential for preventing war from occurring and securing the lives and peaceful daily lives of the Japanese people. The Government’s policy has not changed at all, which is to first secure peace through diplomacy, and in this endeavor, continue to proactively pursue peace diplomacy. Japan will follow its path as a peace-loving nation – this conviction remains exactly as it has before. On this basis, in preparation for unexpected situations, Japan will continue to take all possible measures to be able to firmly secure the lives and peaceful daily lives of the Japanese people in any situation. In proceeding with this, the Government believes that it is critically important to gain broad support from the Japanese people. We will continue to provide explanations to be able to gain the further understanding of the Japanese people.

REPORTER: I have a related question. As you also just stated, the Government needs to gain the broad support of the Japanese people. However, according to the public opinion polls of the media outlets, understanding has deepened regarding the necessity of the legislation, but on the other hand, there still remains strong opposition. How will you seek to gain the understanding of those people who are against the legislation?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: This legislation was passed and will enter into force tomorrow. Compared to when this legislation was passed, the percentage that supports the legislation has increased in some newspaper opinion polls. Compared to when the legislation was passed, the percentages of people for and against the legislation have become more even. The Government will therefore continue to provide thorough explanations regarding the purpose and content of this legislation in order to gain the understanding of the Japanese people.

REPORTER: I have a question concerning this matter. As I see it, the Abe administration has proactively promoted security policies, such as the establishment of the National Security Council, the revision of the Guidelines for Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation, and the easing of the Three Principles on Arms Exports. What is your assessment of these series of steps that were taken, including the development of this legislation?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: As I stated a short while ago, it is also true that the security situation surrounding Japan has become extremely severe. In particular, North Korea has conducted nuclear tests, launched ballistic missiles which it calls satellites, and furthermore, recently launched several missiles into the Sea of Japan. Under these circumstances, there are virtually no countries in the world that can secure the lives and peaceful daily lives of their people on their own. In the face of such a situation, the Government’s most important task is to ensure that the people can lead safe and secure lives in any situation. The Abe administration has worked to have the Diet steadily pass the various legislation needed for this one at a time, and here we are today.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I would like to ask a question in connection with Russia. Last week, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu of Russia revealed that it was considering setting up naval bases on the large islands of the Kuril Islands, including both the islands of Etorofu and Kunashiri of the Northern Territories. What is the Japanese Government’s reaction to this comment? How will the Government deal with this?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Of course I am aware of the comment. If it is to lead to Russia strengthening its military infrastructure on the Four Northern Islands, then it is inconsistent with the position of Japan and is very regrettable. The Government is constantly closely following Russia’s moves regarding the Four Northern Islands, and we will deal with the situation appropriately.

REPORTER: I have a related question. Has the Japanese Government lodged any protests to Russia?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Japan has communicated to Russia through diplomatic channels that we have concerns over Defence Minister Shoigu’s comment, and stated that if it is to lead to Russia strengthening its military infrastructure on the Northern Territories, then it is inconsistent with Japan’s position and is regrettable.